Key facts
- Nigel Farage failed to declare a £5 million gift from crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne.
- Reform UK expects an initial adverse verdict from the standards commissioner.
- The party is preparing to appeal any negative findings.
- A potential suspension could trigger a by-election in Farage's Clacton constituency.
- Recent media investigations have led to internal changes and police inquiries.
- Reform UK has received significant donations from Christopher Harborne and Ben Delo.
Reform UK is anticipating a report from the standards commissioner concerning Nigel Farage's failure to declare a £5 million gift from crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne. The party is reportedly preparing for an appeal against any adverse findings, with expectations that the initial verdict will be unfavorable. Such a verdict, if it leads to a suspension of more than 10 days, could trigger a by-election in Farage's Clacton constituency. Farage was interviewed by the standards commissioner last month, and the party awaits notification of the findings. In parallel, Reform UK is restructuring its headquarters operations following recent media investigations. Channel 4 reporting led to a police inquiry into alleged illegal overseas donations and the suspension of two party officials, though an internal report cleared them. ITV reporting uncovered racist and misogynistic views from some party candidates. The party has also seen departures and new appointments in key operational roles, including a new treasurer and general secretary focused on vetting. Despite recent challenges and a slide in polls, the party's mood is described as down but less severe than expected, partly due to significant donations from Harborne and Ben Delo.